AFCON 2015 Qualifiers: Nigeria Shocked by Sudan in 1-0 Defeat
Nigeria’s qualification hopes for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations took a serious hit on Matchday 3, as the Super Eagles suffered a 1-0 defeat to Sudan in Khartoum. The loss leaves the reigning African champions in a precarious position in Group A.
⚽ Match Summary:
The only goal of the match came just before halftime:
42nd minute: Babeker Bakri capitalized on a lapse in Nigeria’s defense to score the decisive goal for the Sudanese Falcons of Jediane.
Despite second-half pressure and a few attacking moves, Nigeria failed to find an equalizer.
📝 Starting Lineups:
🇸🇩 Sudan:
Goalkeeper: Mahgoub
Defenders: El Haj, Gaafar, Rayah, Faris
Midfielders: Shigail, Kamal, El Tahir, Amare
Forwards: Bakri, Jizoli
🇳🇬 Nigeria:
Goalkeeper: Enyeama
Defenders: Ambrose, Omeruo, Oboabona, Echiejile
Midfielders: Onazi, Nosa Igiebor, Mikel Obi
Forwards: Musa, Emenike, Salami
🚨 What This Means:
Nigeria now has just one point after three matches and faces immense pressure heading into the return leg against Sudan on Matchday 4.
Sudan climbs back into contention in Group A, complicating the qualification race.
With qualification on the line, Stephen Keshi and his men must respond decisively to avoid missing out on the continental showpiece in Morocco 2015.
